Factors in Planning

One very important aspect of planning for the future is to take time to consider your overall financial and estate plans. Many people never get around to making a will or other estate plan, for example, and that's a real shame because so many good things can come out of the planning process -- not the least of which is your own peace of mind.

If you are ready to consider making or reviewing your estate plan, consider using the four "P's" as a simple guide. Before going to visit your attorney and/or other professional advisor, take time to list the following:

In our lives, each of us was encouraged by someone—other than our parents—who broadened our horizons and brought a little magic into our lives. At Big Brothers Big Sisters you can do the same for a child.t

PEOPLE: Who are all the people in your life who depend on you or whom you might want to remember in your plans? Spouse, children, grandchildren, other relatives, friends and loved ones come to mind.

PROPERTY: What are the various properties you own that together make up your estate? List real estate, insurance, annuities, mortgages held, automobiles, furniture, etc. Make a note of the cost of each, the estimated current value and any income or debt involved.

PLANS: How would you like to match your properties to the people you have listed? Be sure to include any plans you have to remember your charitable interests, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay.

PLANNERS: Who are the people you will need to talk with to complete your plan? Remember to list your attorney, insurance agent, broker, trust officer, certified financial planner and perhaps others.

Once you have been through this process, you are ready to put it all together. We at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay would be most honored to be a part of your future plans. If you would like more informationPlanning a Gift to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, or if we can help in any way, please feel free to call or e-mail De Anna Sheffield at (813) 769-3604. Thank you for your consideration of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay.

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Text written by Robert F. Sharpe, Sr. and reprinted with permission from The College of William and Mary National Planned Giving Institute.

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Please note, individual financial circumstances will vary. The information on this site does not constitute legal or tax advice. Donor stories and photographs are for purposes of illustration only. As with all tax and estate planning, please consult your attorney or estate specialist. All material is copyrighted and is for viewing purposes only. Use of this site signifies your agreement with the terms of use. The content in this Planned Giving section has been developed for Big Brothers Big Sisters by Future Focus. Please report any problems to section webmaster. Revised: July 22, 2008 16:57.